Common Ground is a charity based in Dorset that has been a pioneer in community conservation and environmental education in England for over three decades. We are not a think tank or political pressure group, but rather a grassroots organization that collaborates openly to reconnect people with nature and empower communities to take responsibility for their local environment. We believe that cultivating a sense of pride and connection to one's surroundings is the foundation for meaningful conservation.

By celebrating the wildlife and landscapes right in our own backyard, we can develop a greater appreciation for the intertwining of human life and the natural world. Common Ground was founded in 1983 with the principle of Local Distinctiveness at its heart. Our projects, such as Apple Day, Parish Maps, Tree Dressing, and Community Woodlands, have captivated communities across the country, evoking strong feelings of attachment to local history, language, nature, architecture, folklore, and the unique landscapes that define our places.

Through music, art exhibitions, film-making, publishing, and community gatherings, we aim to inspire and equip communities with the tools they need to forge lasting connections with their home ground. We believe that by caring for our everyday surroundings and fostering a sense of attachment, communities can express themselves and take resourceful, imaginative, and inclusive action to protect and cherish their local environment. Join us in celebrating the beauty and significance of the landscapes and wildlife that surround us, ensuring that they are not lost to climate change and unchecked development.

With Common Ground, you can make a positive difference in your own locality